ANNAPURNA MODEL TREK
ANNAPURNA MODEL TREK
A FEAST FOR THE EYES IN ONLY 11 DAYS LIVING CLOSE TO SOARING PEAKS!
The Annapurna Model trek is a preferred alternative to the more touristy Annapurna Circuit treks and is of medium difficulty and offers you beautiful views of the vast Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. It is also known as the Machapuchare Village Trek.
Machapuchare (Fishtail) is a symbolic unmistakable on the skyline. This trek brings you close to many soaring peaks in the Annapurna Ranges and immerses you in exquisite natural surroundings and the culture and centuries-old traditions of the villagers in these remote locations. The trail leads to relaxing therapeutic hot water springs, waterfalls, and tea gardens where the views will take your breath away!
On the Machapuchare Model Trek we can choose to stay in tents or in traditional homes with locals – homestay, in a number of villages in the Kaski District of Nepal, such as Ribhan (1430m), Lahchok, Ghachok, Lwang Ghalel, Sardi Khola and Dhital. Trekking to the villages will allow you to experience various castes, such as Gurung, Brahmin, Chhetri, Newar, Thakali, kumal. The homestay option gives you a better understanding of their individual beliefs and cultures.
The trail on this trek will expose you to extremely beautiful scenery and Mt. Mardi (5587m), Mt. Machapuchare (6993m – Fishtail) Annapurna Massif (8091m – Annapurna 1), Mt. Dhaulagiri 1 (8167m – 7th highest in the world) and exposure to other mountains in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs (120km in length). The Annapurna Massif has one peak of over 8000 meters, thirteen peaks over 7000 meters, and sixteen more over 6000 meters.
Our Sherpa Expedition & Trekking team will take you to the very soul of the Himalayas and provide you with photo opportunities of numerous snow-capped peaks that will leave you spell-bound. Here is an opportunity to get close-up and personal with some of the world’s most memorable peaks.
Key Features of Annapurna Model Trek
- Up-close views of amazing & photogenic Machapuchare (Fishtail) and the vast Annapurna Ranges.
- Beautiful Pokhara, lakes, and startling reflections off the mountains.
- Exposure to the mountain villagers and their distinctly different cultures, lifestyle & food.
- Newly developed trek to new destinations that benefits many villages.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, dos and don’ts of your trek. Your hotel will be in the Thamel tourist district and is an interesting place to wander and explore. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Day 3 : Drive to Milanchok and trek to Ghachok (1,254m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we will drive to Milan Chowk from Pokhara via private vehicle. From Milan chowk, we will trek to Ghachok. We cross the Mardi Khola (river) bridge before arriving at Ghachok. Tonight we will experience the local hospitality and live in a traditional Nepali homestay.
Day 4 : Trek to Dhiprang (1,440m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today the trail takes us on a 3-4 hour trek to Dhiprang Village, a lush green farming village nestled in a valley. The trek there is full of beautiful hilly treed and farmlands. Tonight we will enjoy homestay accommodation.
Day 5 : Trek to Chichemle Kharka (2,645m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail to Chichemle Kharka, passing through the picturesque rhododendron forests (more spectacular in spring with pink blossoms) and the vivid green fauna on rolling hillsides and in valleys. The trek will take about 6 hours, passing over Odane Hill (2510m), before we reach Chichemle Kharka. Tonight is another local experience – home stay!
Day 6 : Trek to Lalka (2,250m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
This morning we will take the trail down to Lalka – about a 4-hour trek. After arriving at Lalka you will have an in-the-face close encounter view of Mount Annapurna South (7219m), Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli (6441m). tonight we will camp in Lalka.
Day 7 : Trek to Ribhan (1,430m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Our trek today will take about 4 to 5 hours before we reach Ribhan, which incidentally is about the same distance from Pokhara. Once again we are blessed with some amazing views of the mountains as the sun sets behind them. A peaceful night at a homestay with wonderful memories of the fantastic snow-capped peaks!
Day 8 : Trek to Lachok (1,160m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After breakfast here at Ribhan, we will head to Lahchok. On coming to Lahachok where we can relax and wander around the village at leisure. As the sun sets we can sit in awe and watch the changing light over a backdrop of soaring peaks. Tonight we will again live with the locals in a homestay.
Day 9 : Trek to Milanchok and drive to Pokhara; Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is our last day in these picturesque lands of smiles and amazing scenery. After reaching Milan Chowk we head to Pokhara where we have time to explore lakeside and maybe catch up on some last-minute shopping along the main road that stretches from one end of Phewa Tal (lake) to the other end. Pokhara also has a vibrant nightlife with many cafes and bars where you may wish to celebrate and reminisce and share the experience with friends. Tonight we will stay near Lakeside in a 3-star hotel.
Day 10 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
Day 11 : Final Departure from kathmandu.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) tent camp accommodation during the trek.
- Private transport from Pokhara Milan Chowk and back to Pokhara from Lahachok.
- Tourist Bus From Kathmandu-Pokhara- Kathmandu.
- Annapurna Conservation Area permit and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) fees.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ homestay/Tent. You may find comfortable and better quality homestay - without the attached bathroom at lower to until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Manang & Mustang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Annapurna Model Trek?
The Annapurna Model Trek is a shorter version of the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek. It covers a smaller section of the circuit, allowing trekkers to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region in a shorter time frame.
How long is the Annapurna Model Trek?
The duration of the Annapurna Model Trek can vary depending on the specific itinerary and trekking agency. Typically, it takes around 5-7 days to complete the trek.
What is the best time to do the Annapurna Model Trek?
The best time to do the Annapurna Model Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions.
Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Model Trek?
Yes, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to do the Annapurna Model Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Model Trek?
The Annapurna Model Trek is considered to be a moderate trek. It involves walking for several hours each day on varied terrain, including uphill and downhill sections. Prior trekking experience and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Model Trek?
The maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Model Trek is typically around 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) at Poon Hill. This makes it a relatively low-altitude trek compared to other treks in the Annapurna region.
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation during the Annapurna Model Trek is usually in basic teahouses or lodges along the trail. These provide simple rooms with shared facilities. As for food, you can expect to find a variety of Nepali and international dishes, including dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and noodles.
Is a guide necessary for the Annapurna Model Trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide for the Annapurna Model Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the area or have limited trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights, help with navigation, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Model Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Annapurna Model Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good-quality backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
Can I combine the Annapurna Model Trek with other treks in the region?
Yes, it is possible to combine the Annapurna Model Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Mardi Himal Trek. This allows you to explore more of the stunning landscapes and cultural diversity of the area.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 14 Reviews
Marty Hughes
Australia
November 14, 2023
Best Trekking Company!
My partner and I had a fantastic trekking experience when we did the Annapurna Model Trek with Sherpa as our guide. Their knowledge of the trail and their friendly demeanor made the entire journey enjoyable. Sherpa's guidance and support were invaluable throughout the trek. We highly recommend Sherpa for an incredible adventure!
George Anthony
Austria
November 8, 2023
Best Trekking Company!
I Visited Nepal this October, got in touch with Ram Barakoti a couple of months earlier when I was planning the trip. He and all his team were simply amazing. Organized for all the permits due. I can't compare with anything else as this was the first time 4 me in Nepal but the experience was truly better than expected. Ask for guide Wangchu Sherpa possibly, his nephew. Highly highly recommended.
Harold Roberts
Finland
October 3, 2023
A Trek to Remember
I recently had a trek to remember when I did the Annapurna Model Trek with Sherpa as my guide. Their knowledge of the trail, along with their friendly and supportive nature, made the entire journey enjoyable. I strongly recommend Sherpa to anyone planning this trek. They will ensure you have an amazing experience!
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